A 36-year-old man from Arizona, Eric Thomas Scionti, has been sentenced to 47 months (almost four years) in prison for illegally owning guns and brutally killing pigeons. He was also found guilty of filming himself torturing the birds, including burning their eyes with a torch lighter, removing their skin, and squeezing them until their organs burst.
Scionti, from Tempe, pleaded guilty on October 3, 2024, to two serious charges: illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and committing acts of extreme animal cruelty. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona announced his sentencing, which includes three years of supervised release after serving his prison term.
Investigation and Arrest
Scionti’s crimes came to light in 2022 when an anonymous tip was sent to the FBI. The tipster revealed that Scionti, who was already a convicted felon, owned several firearms and was involved with extremist groups.
An FBI agent from the Joint Terrorism Task Force started investigating him and found that he had at least 12 firearms. The tipster also said Scionti had collected these weapons, expecting to take part in violent uprisings after the 2020 U.S. presidential election.
On January 18, 2023, federal agents obtained a search warrant and raided the house where Scionti was staying. They seized six firearms and a large amount of ammunition—1,826 rounds.
Past Criminal Record
Prosecutors revealed that Scionti had a history of criminal activity, including multiple felony convictions in Arizona. Because of his criminal past, federal law prohibited him from owning guns or ammunition. His previous convictions included trespassing, drug possession, and unlawfully firing a gun.
Connection to Extremist Groups
Scionti was reportedly involved with the “Boogaloo Bois,” a violent extremist group known for its anti-government views. According to experts, this group supports civil unrest and was particularly active during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
Authorities believe Scionti acquired weapons because he was preparing for violent uprisings. His involvement with extremist groups, combined with his illegal possession of firearms and animal cruelty, led to his lengthy prison sentence.
Sentencing and Consequences
On Tuesday, United States District Judge John J. Tuchi sentenced Scionti to nearly four years in prison. After serving his sentence, he will be under supervised release for three more years.
This case highlights the dangers of illegal gun ownership and animal cruelty and serves as a warning against extremist activities.
